Breathing is an autonomic function generally performed through the nose (nasal respiration). Nasal passages filter, warm, and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs. Oral respiration, or mouth breathing, bypasses this natural conditioning system. Chronic mouth breathing is a concern because it is detrimental to overall health, causing immediate consequences for the mouth’s environment and long-term effects on facial structure, especially in children.
Direct Impact on Oral Health
Chronic airflow across the oral surfaces causes the evaporation of saliva, leading to xerostomia, or dry mouth. Saliva is a natural defense mechanism, containing minerals and buffering agents that neutralize acids produced by bacteria. When saliva volume decreases, its protective capacity is lost.
This acidic environment allows harmful bacteria to thrive, significantly increasing the risk of dental caries, or tooth decay, particularly on the front teeth exposed to the drying air. The lack of moisture also irritates soft tissues, making the gums more susceptible to inflammation and infection. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is often observed in chronic mouth breathers.
Effect on Facial and Jaw Development
In growing children, chronic mouth breathing profoundly influences the development of the craniofacial complex. When the mouth is habitually open, the tongue drops from its proper resting position against the palate to the floor of the mouth. This lowered posture eliminates the natural, outward pressure the tongue provides, which guides the broad growth of the upper jaw. Without this pressure, the maxilla develops too narrow, creating a constricted, high-arched palate.
This structural change often leads to dental alignment issues, or malocclusion, such as crowded teeth, crossbites, and open bites where the front teeth cannot meet. In severe cases, this growth pattern contributes to “long face syndrome” or “adenoid facies,” characterized by a longer, narrower face and a less defined jawline.
Strategies for Correction
The first step in addressing chronic oral respiration is to identify and resolve the underlying cause, which is most often nasal obstruction. Common physical impediments include chronic allergies, frequent sinus infections, a deviated nasal septum, or enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Consulting with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist is necessary to diagnose and treat these blockages, potentially through medication or surgery.
Once the nasal airway is clear, the focus shifts to retraining the body to breathe correctly, often involving a team approach. Dentists and orthodontists can address resulting dental and jaw issues, sometimes recommending orthodontic treatment to expand a narrowed palate. Myofunctional therapists specialize in exercises designed to strengthen the muscles of the face, tongue, and mouth, helping to establish proper tongue posture and lip seal. These targeted exercises aim to make nasal breathing the default, even during sleep.